Managing ADHD at the Post-Secondary Transition: A Qualitative Study of Parent and Young Adult Perspectives

Students with ADHD struggle substantially at the post-secondary transition. Yet, no empirical work identifies school-based intervention targets that specifically prepare graduating students for adjustment to this new phase of life. This study is a preliminary investigation of factors that promote success for students with ADHD during the post-secondary transition. Using qualitative methods, 25 in-depth interviews were conducted with 13 young adults with ADHD (age 18-21) and 12 parents of young adults with ADHD. Informants offered their perspectives of what factors were critical to post-secondary success and how (i.e., by what mechanisms) these factors influence young adult functioning. Twenty macrothemes were identified under three a priori categories: motivational, skills, and environmental factors. Two macrothemes outside of these categories were identified post hoc. Motivation and self-control difficulties were identified as the most commonly impairing deficits. Factors that enhanced and undermined these deficits were identified by parents and young adults. Implications for intervention are discussed.